Director of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships

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Job description

• With the Enrollment Management Vice President, the Director develops, supports, and implements financial aid initiatives informed by data, knowledge of best practices, and a deep understanding of relevant policy. They will advise and actively contribute a financial aid lens to broader strategic enrollment management goals.
• Oversees processing and allocation of all institutional aid (e.g., scholarships/assistantships) and federal student aid programs, putting into place streamlined and efficient processes, workflows and budgets, complementary to the institutional leadership vision.
• Oversees the development of all financial aid collateral, e.g., financial aid application, forms, website, academic catalog, presentations, brochures, and other media. Works closely with
  University Communications & Marketing, Student Business Services, Undergraduate Admissions, the Graduate School, the School of Medicine, and the Office of the Registrar ensure financial aid communications are up to date and accurate.
• Develops and maintains appropriate control measures, policies, and procedures to ensure accuracy and proper distribution of all financial aid monies to eligible students.
• Researches interpret and apply federal, state, and accreditation regulations to ensure that the College complies with all, including Title IV program guidelines.
• Works closely with other University departments (e.g., Student Business Services/Student Accounting) to ensure compliance with program reconciliation and cash management requirements.
• Oversees the preparation and submission of all federal, state, and agency reporting, such as the Fiscal Operations Report and Application to Participate (FISAP), and ensures the College's federal program participation agreement remains current and in effect.
• Oversees data exchange between the institution and the Department of Education databases.
• Serves as senior liaison for federal and state financial aid program audits and/or federal and state program reviews.
• Maintains a current policy and procedures manual following federal regulation.
• Conducts internal review processes with staff members in various areas to ensure that outlined policies and procedures are consistent with all requirements.
  
  

Compensation commensurate with education and experience. Oakland University offers an excellent benefit program including a comprehensive medical plan with low contribution amounts for our employees, dental and vision plans at no cost for our employees, generous paid time off plans, a generous University contribution to our 403(b) retirement plan, tuition assistance for our employees and dependents, free access to our Campus Recreation Center and workout facilities, and flexible work schedules and wellness programs. These are current benefit levels subject to future changes.

Job Requirements:

• Master's Degree in business, communications, higher education administration, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
• Seven or more years of progressively responsible supervisory and leadership experience in a student-centered, service-oriented financial aid office.
• Expert-level knowledge of the state and federal regulations that govern financial aid and the resources available to research compliance questions.
• A thorough understanding of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) regulations.
• Expert-level knowledge of the software used to process financial aid, including Common Origination and Disbursement (COD), National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS), Student Aid Internet Gateway (SAIG), FAA Access to CPS Online, and E-App.
• Extensive knowledge of computer-based financial aid packaging and reporting systems; experience in streamlining processes using automation.
• Demonstrated experience in a proactive approach to developing and executing strategies to guide students and families to make optimal choices for financing their education.
• Student outreach experience and the ability to effectively communicate with a diverse group of students and family members and other internal and external constituents regarding financial aid and scholarships.
• Excellent organizational and analytical skills.
• The ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and verbally, with students, parents, auditors, school counselors, faculty, alumni, college administrators, and other constituents of the financial aid office is required.
• Strong leadership and management skills, including effective interviewing, hiring, training, coaching and evaluating.
• The ability to create an office culture that values innovation, collaboration, accountability, and data-informed decision-making.
• The ability to develop knowledge of, respect, and skills to engage with people from different cultures or backgrounds.
• Possesses critical thinking skills to solve problems, analyze trends and provide recommendations.
• A valid driver's license and driving record acceptable to the University by the University's insurance carrier is required.

PI